WWE Black Wednesday - Talent Releases

[Bad News Gertner]

Per WWE.com


Drake Maverick
Cain Velasquez
No Way Jose
Curt Hawkins
Curtis Axel
Sarah Logan
Karl Anderson
Rusev
Zack Ryder
Mike Kanellis
Maria Kanellis
Epico
Primo
Erick Rowan
Luke Gallows
EC3
Lio Rush
Aiden English
Kurt Angle.
Eric Young
Heath Slater :(


Agents/Producers/Ref

Pat Buck
Shane Helms
Gerald Brisco
Lance Storm
Billy Kidman
Mike Rotunda
Dave Finlay
Scott Armstrong
Shawn Daivari
Mike Chioda
Sarah Stock

NXT/Coaches/Writer
Dan Matha
Alyssa Miles
Kassius Ohno
Jon Quasto
Kendo Kashin (coach)
Serena Deeb (Performance Center coach)
Chris Guy (Performance Center coach)
MJ Jenkins
Josiah Wiliams
Jerry Soto (announcer)
Deonna Purrazzo
Aleksandar Jaksic
Andrea Listenberger (writer

[drave]

All of those names should have been long gone anyway

[Triple A]

Eric Young also released, according to PWInsider

[erickman]

impact and aew just got better, wonder if dashwood wished lio luck yet

[Bad News Gertner]

Eric Young also released, according to PWInsider

Yeah I'll have to periodically refresh the WWE.com website and update the post.

[Bad News Gertner]

NOOOOOOOOOO HEATH SLATER :(

[drave]

Don't see how this is going to benefit anyone, given the state of the world right now.




WWE's problem was signing talent for the sake of sqandering them from the competition. AEW, nor any other fed, should do that.

[drave]

NOOOOOOOOOO HEATH SLATER :(




HE'S GOT KIDS!!!!!!

[Evil Vito]

Hawkins is a mild surprise only because he seemed like he'd be a lifer because he was content to just job endlessly and run his wrestling school on the side.

Gallows and Anderson were affiliated with AJ on screen multiple times and stuck around after being promised a renewed push but it's not like AJ needed them, and they were making a huge wage to not do all that much.

EC3 pretty clearly wanted out.

Sucks for Maverick because he was just announced for the Cruiserweight Title tournament and was finally going to get a chance to wrestle after barely doing so in the two years he'd been there.

[Bad News Gertner]

Blah.

[Evil Vito]

Heath Slater was criminally underutilized.

[erickman]

Don't see how this is going to benefit anyone, given the state of the world right now.




WWE's problem was signing talent for the sake of sqandering them from the competition. AEW, nor any other fed, should do that.

not one of them should but all the indys will get better

[Evil Vito]

If Zack Ryder survives this wave of cuts, it's because they've decided to keep Chelsea Green and they're pretty good about not splitting up couples.

[DaveWadding]

RIP Chad 2 Badd & Tex Ferguson. :'(

[Bad News Gertner]

Heath Slater was criminally underutilized.

He was a great annoying heel. I wish he would have gotten a U.S/IC run.

[erickman]

rusev i don't see surviving

[slik]

Squared Circle Sirens reports Fit Finlay and Lance Storm let go behind the scenes
Sportskeeda has added Mike Rotunda to that list as well.

[Evil Vito]

Squared Circle Sirens reports Fit Finlay and Lance Storm let go behind the scenes

IRS and The Hurricane too

[Evil Vito]

I mean, let's also call this what it is. WWE has signed an absolutely ridiculous amount of people, often seemingly just to have them, and up until that day last fall where they let Brodie Lee and The Ascension go they pretty much never got rid of anyone unless they either retired from wrestling altogether or had major character issues (see: ACH), oftentimes even when the talent themselves would have liked to have left. It was a bubble that was always going to burst someday.

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I knew I shouldn’t have answered that call. ������█♂️</p>&mdash; Hurricane Helms (@ShaneHelmsCom) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneHelmsCom/status/1250469737047474179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[slik]

WWE has too much talent they don't use, so a cut would make sense. Sucks for the talent obviously.

Some will eventually get picked up by Japan, ROH, Impact or AEW -- but not all talent, behind the scenes or in front of the cameras are a good fit for any of those companies.

[Evil Vito]

There's talk of some people being furloughed rather than released. But i imagine that's for the office workers. The main point of furlough is that you get to keep your health insurance and, welp, we know the wrestlers don't get that.

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nine producers have been released from WWE:<br><br>- Billy Kidman <br>- Mike Rotunda<br>- Dave Finlay<br>- Pat Buck<br>- Shawn Daivari<br>- Scott Armstrong<br>- Sarah Stock<br>- Shane Helms<br>- Lance Storm</p>&mdash; Gary Cassidy (@consciousgary) <a href="https://twitter.com/consciousgary/status/1250488220577644544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kurt Angle has been released by WWE</p>&mdash; Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1250488413163315201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Aiden English has been released by WWE</p>&mdash; Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1250488449653788672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Evil Vito]

Aiden English is gone

-edit-

outslicked by Slik

[Lock Jaw]

Heath Slater not being involved with R-Truth and the 24/7 title was criminal :'(

[slik]

rusev i don't see surviving

I hope Rusev survives!

Cesaro too!

[Evil Vito]

I hope Rusev survives!

Cesaro too!

Well if my theory on not wanting to split couples holds any weight.....Rusev/Lana and Cesaro/Sara Amato. Who knows.

[erickman]

if rusev did not resign his contract yet and lana sucks i see them both going

[Bad News Gertner]

I imagine the producers are furloughed

[Evil Vito]

I imagine the producers are furloughed

Probably. The company may legit not be running live events again until 2021.

[Mike the Metal Ed]

Mike Chioda's gone after more than 30 years with the company

[slik]

Mike Chioda
Sarah Logan

gone as well

[Evil Vito]

Well, Sarah Logan's with Viking Erik so that blows up my theory about couples. Zack Ryder better avoid checking his phone.

[erickman]

so logans end was sobbing in the ring what an end

[Evil Vito]

Bobby Roode's probably in trouble. They've done fuck all with him lately.

[Evil Vito]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My immediate thoughts.<a href="https://twitter.com/WWE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WWE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WWENXT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WWENXT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WWE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WWE</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NXT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NXT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TripleH?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TripleH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShawnMichaels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShawnMichaels</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cruiserweight?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cruiserweight</a> <a href="https://t.co/Afw58V7eo1">pic.twitter.com/Afw58V7eo1</a></p>&mdash; Drake Maverick (@WWEMaverick) <a href="https://twitter.com/WWEMaverick/status/1250493936185102339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Triple A]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">According to sources, the producers seem to have all been furloughed ... not let go from the company entirely.</p>&mdash; Pro Wrestling Sheet (@WrestlingSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestlingSheet/status/1250496387000614913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[slik]

Crazy times

[Evil Vito]

Lol Epico gone but not Primo.

[Bad News Gertner]

Rowan gone as well

[Triple A]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">According to sources, the producers seem to have all been furloughed ... not let go from the company entirely.</p>&mdash; Pro Wrestling Sheet (@WrestlingSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestlingSheet/status/1250496387000614913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Hmmm, Lance Storm sounds like he was totally let go, not furloughed

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My best to all who, like me, lost their jobs today. To those still on the job, hold down the fort for us. It was my pleasure to work with you all these past 4 month. I hope we will all get a chance to work together again. Stay strong, stay safe.</p>&mdash; Lance Storm (@LanceStorm) <a href="https://twitter.com/LanceStorm/status/1250497846324813824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[slik]

Drake Maverick tweet really depressing, hope he lands on his feet

[Evil Vito]

Lol Epico gone but not Primo.

Aaaand he’s gone

RIP to the new JTG

[Triple A]

It's truly fucked that they released all of these people at the worst possible time, when most can't get work anywhere else... despite WWE still bringing in tons of profits this year

[Lock Jaw]

Rowan gone as well

At least they got to pay off that cage angle!!!!

[Evil Vito]

Rowan gone as well

I got the sense from Brodie Lee’s interview on TIJ that Rowan wanted out anyway.

[Triple A]

Imagine the morale having to travel out to shows every week during a pandemic when a bunch of your friends/coworkers were just fired by the billionaire owner

[slik]

Mike Kanellis gone

[DaveWadding]

If they release Mike but not Maria :lol:

[erickman]

looks like they will fire half the roster

[Volare]

Drake Maverick tweet really depressing, hope he lands on his feet

I was feeling that whole video.

[GD]

This is all very disheartening. Can't believe they let go of so many performers.

[Volare]

Shit we might have a 3 way in promotions if/when things go back to "normal."

[DaveWadding]

I was feeling that whole video.

It would kinda make a good angle. Maybe a little tasteless, but it's WWE.

[slik]

Maria gone

[DaveWadding]

Maria gone

Man that fuckin sucks.

[Evil Vito]

Fuck

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Braun Strowman was telling indie wrestlers to change profession a few weeks ago. Now 2 of his better friends are unemployed. Life is crazy. <a href="https://t.co/5nE2vRXi6b">pic.twitter.com/5nE2vRXi6b</a></p>&mdash; JRKUERVO (@JRKUERVOGAMING) <a href="https://twitter.com/JRKUERVOGAMING/status/1250504300624674816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Evil Vito]

What's really awful is that many of these cuts have nowhere to work. Maybe a few latch right on to AEW (who, like WWE, will still run events even if on a different taping scheduled). But while the rest could've jumped right into indy bookings and such, obviously none of that is available at the moment.

[xrodmuc316]

I wonder if they are full cut contracts.

The reason being is Gallows and Anderson both signed big money deals very recently. Those are they 2 that either make the most sense in terms of saving money, or those are the 2 that make the lease sense to let go of WWE still has to pay their big downside guarantees.

[Lock Jaw]

Just watched that Drake Maverick video..... he is def winning the Cruiserweight Title

[Big Vic]

if rusev did not resign his contract yet and lana sucks i see them both going

Remember when Rusev, Lana, and Aiden were all super over?

[Bad News Gertner]

Zack Ryder released

[erickman]

I wonder if they are full cut contracts.

The reason being is Gallows and Anderson both signed big money deals very recently. Those are they 2 that either make the most sense in terms of saving money, or those are the 2 that make the lease sense to let go of WWE still has to pay their big downside guarantees.

yeah a few of the people just signed 5 year contracts like mike bennet

[Evil Vito]

All of this bloodletting and they haven't even gotten to NXT yet. Half expect them to just close NXT UK outright.

[DaveWadding]

They might as well just stop 205 Live at this point.

[Evil Vito]

No Way Jose gone

[Lock Jaw]

No Way Jose gone

No Way

[xrodmuc316]

I wonder if this would be happening if Vince didn't just lose like $300 million on football.

[DaveWadding]

No Way

No Way Jose

[Evil Vito]

Whenever you started a new game in the wrestling simulator Extreme Warfare Revenge, WWE would always release like 100 people by the time you got to the second day.

Feels just like it.

[xrodmuc316]

Wonder how much of an advance on his allowance Tony is gonna ask Shad for with all these new toys available to buy :rofl:

[Anybody Thrilla]

Whenever you started a new game in the wrestling simulator Extreme Warfare Revenge, WWE would always release like 100 people by the time you got to the second day.

Feels just like it.

This is far too accurate.

[Lock Jaw]

Worried for Fandango

[DaveWadding]

He's injured, so probably safe for now.

[Vastardikai]

Monday: WWE wrestlers are "Essential."

Wednesday: WWE cuts half the roster.

Fucking McMahon.

[xrodmuc316]

Monday: WWE wrestlers are "Essential."

Wednesday: WWE cuts half the roster.

Fucking McMahon.

Lol, he really is such a prick.

[Anybody Thrilla]

He's injured, so probably safe for now.

Injured again? His time's gotta be up soon.

[DaveWadding]

Monday: WWE wrestlers are "Essential."

Wednesday: WWE cuts half the roster.

Fucking McMahon.

That's "The Great" Vince Fucking McMahon to you.

[Vastardikai]

I'd argue that AEW would certainly benefit from adding one person to that group more than anyone else: Dave Finlay.

Then again, He might get a look at Orange Cassidy and break his thumbs like in the old days.

[Gerard]

Nice timing Vince, you senile old prick. :roll:


Funny how this coincides with the xfl going down the shitter, again.

[Triple A]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">and wrestlers <a href="https://t.co/QjJ4pUPsWv">https://t.co/QjJ4pUPsWv</a></p>&mdash; Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) <a href="https://twitter.com/davemeltzerWON/status/1250510716039163904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Triple A]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thank you All, Rusev out!</p>&mdash; Miro (@RusevBUL) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusevBUL/status/1250515808356188160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[GD]

Zack Ryder released

Oh no! Poor Zack :'(

[Gerard]

Surprised Angle managed to make it this long, just a shame he couldn't have had his last match years earlier. That match against Corbin was pitiful.

[RP]

Mojo is probably the smartest guy in the business attaching himself to Gronk might save his job.

[DaveWadding]

And on Rusev Day. For shame.

[Splaya]

Vince has released the entire WWE superstars roster and he's apporaching getting rid of the 205 Live roster. I might get a shocked face when someone BIG gets released.

[GD]

If the rumors about Tyler Breeze were true, I wouldn't be surprised if they let him go.

[BigCrippyZ]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rf-sNmLjzz0?start=104" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Piece of shit.

Then. Now. Forever.

[XL]

Bo? Axel?

[XL]

Lucha House Party?

[Danny Electric]

Sad to see people losing their jobs in the current situation we are in, people with families.

Can see Riddick Moss being announced, maybe even the Forgotten Sons after one match on the main roster. Lucha house party , Jeff Hardy? Chad Gable , Jason Jordan still signed to a contract?

[Anybody Thrilla]

If the rumors about Tyler Breeze were true, I wouldn't be surprised if they let him go.

What rumors are those?

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lots of people getting let go at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WWE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WWE</a> today and regrettably, I am one of them. But I'm proud of the work I've been able to do since starting in Dec., and glad that the storyline I worked on resonated with so many people. That's what writing is about for me. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OtisandMandyForever?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OtisandMandyForever</a></p>&mdash; Andrea Listenberger (@andrea_ml) <a href="https://twitter.com/andrea_ml/status/1250504617689038858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[slik]

Rusev is the one person on this list when things clear up after Rona I would pursue if I were AEW.

[Danny Electric]

Bo? Axel?

Or I was just thinking , I could see them getting rid of Axel and then keeping Bo to use him in an angle involving Bray and Braun.

[DaveWadding]

Rusev is the one person on this list when things clear up after Rona I would pursue if I were AEW.

Tbh, I just want to watch him and Ishii beat the shit out of each other. Just once.

[XL]

They’ve never really referenced the link between Bo and Bray have they?

[XL]

2/3rds of the original Wyatt Family now gone. :(

[Triple A]

If the rumors about Tyler Breeze were true, I wouldn't be surprised if they let him go.

What rumors

[slik]

what did tyler breeze do

[DaveWadding]

NXT cuts are starting right now

[Anybody Thrilla]

What rumors are those?

What rumors

what did tyler breeze do

???

[DaveWadding]

Deonna Purrazzo has been released.

[GD]

What rumors are those?

IIRC were't there rumors of him signing a very lucrative new deal with the WWE?

[Evil Vito]

-Keeps people around for years to do nothing
-Finally fires them at a time when they SHOULD be doing nothing

[Danny Electric]

They’ve never really referenced the link between Bo and Bray have they?

Not from my knowledge but with John Cena going all kayfabe on Bray could be something they bring in.

[Anybody Thrilla]

IIRC were't there rumors of him signing a very lucrative new deal with the WWE?

I don't know. That's why I was asking you.

[DaveWadding]

Some guy who I don't know offhand but goes by @wwealeksandar on Twitter has been released.

[GD]

I don't know. That's why I was asking you.

Of course.

I am unable to find any evidence to substantiate the rumor. Seems like something I might've heard on a podcast or read on an unreliable news site.

[XL]

Some guy who I don't know offhand but goes by @wwealeksandar on Twitter has been released.

Development guy with a good look. Don’t think he’s been on TV.

[Anybody Thrilla]

Titus O'Neil is still there?

[Danny Electric]

Titus O'Neil is still there?

Vince will just get him out every now and then to fall over.

[Splaya]

Titus O'Neil is still there?

Titus will be interesting. Doesn't do much anymore in terms of wrestling or for the product, but he is very very good with their charity work, especially within the schools.

[Triple A]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It's not speculation in the least. <a href="https://t.co/L472wEaSpL">https://t.co/L472wEaSpL</a></p>&mdash; Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) <a href="https://twitter.com/davemeltzerWON/status/1250527220805718016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Danny Electric]

I don’t know if this was said before but Rusev has been officially announced on the WWE website now.

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I know everyone is waiting to hear my response to my release from WWE but after 16 years I’m going to need a little more than a few hours to really digest all my thoughts and emotions. For now, thank you all for all of your kind words and support during this time.</p>&mdash; Heath Slater (@HeathSlaterOMRB) <a href="https://twitter.com/HeathSlaterOMRB/status/1250532260643778566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">NXT talent is being provided 30 days of pay and then are free to do whatever they want.</p>&mdash; Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1250530761805041664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Emperor Smeat]

Starting to wonder if any of this is related to the XFL shutting down and him (and WWE by association) likely losing way more money than assumed on its revival.

Everything done since thing makes it seem like Vince and WWE might be dealing with potential money issues despite that shouldn't be the case. Like him panicking outta nowhere in regards to WWE's tv deals or XFL filing for bankruptcy despite him putting hundreds of millions on the side to fund it for a few years.

[Anybody Thrilla]

Damn. Poor Heath. The only member of 3MB to not get some big hardware.

[DaveWadding]

Damn. Poor Heath. The only member of 3MB to not get some big hardware.

He'll be back in 2 years, are you ready for 3MB 6 FEET APART?

[Anybody Thrilla]

Somebody on Facebook says Ember Moon is released, but her tweet doesn't actually suggest that. Any word?

[Danny Electric]

Somebody on Facebook says Ember Moon is released, but her tweet doesn't actually suggest that. Any word?

Just rumours at the moment.

[xrodmuc316]

Oh no! Poor Zack :'(

Wasn't Tommy Dreamer just saying how stupid Ryder is for spending so much money on action figures like a day ago, and now he has no job.

That's not very WWWYKI

[Anybody Thrilla]

He could probably sell some of them now.

[erickman]

forget the toys i want to know how zack could aford the women he dated

[Emperor Smeat]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Word trickling out that WWE offered mutually agreed upon releases that came with a hefty payoff. This is going to be a long and interesting news day. Entirely possible, and likely, that some of these cuts were people who may have been wanting out anyway.</p>&mdash; Voices of Wrestling (@voiceswrestling) <a href="https://twitter.com/voiceswrestling/status/1250495110493745159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Considering Rusev was among those let go, it does give some credence to that rumor for WWE's choices for releases.

[Evil Vito]

forget the toys i want to know how zack could aford the women he dated

Yeah he’s done well for himself. Emma and Chelsea Green.

I mean he’s an in shape dude in an industry where the women wrestlers are almost definitely gonna wind up dating other wrestlers...so I kinda get it. Also probably was making a pretty nice salary due to longevity.

[slik]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A reminder that Rusev just donated $20,000 to help WWE employees affected by the crisis.<br><br>He's a great, great dude and will kill it wherever he lands.</p>&mdash; Andy H. Murray (@andyhmurray) <a href="https://twitter.com/andyhmurray/status/1250524233941295105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Danny Electric]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Word trickling out that WWE offered mutually agreed upon releases that came with a hefty payoff. This is going to be a long and interesting news day. Entirely possible, and likely, that some of these cuts were people who may have been wanting out anyway.</p>&mdash; Voices of Wrestling (@voiceswrestling) <a href="https://twitter.com/voiceswrestling/status/1250495110493745159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Considering Rusev was among those let go, it does give some credence to that rumor for WWE's choices for releases.

Same with Bennet , Anderson and Gallows, Brodie saying that Rowan wanted out. Probably a mixture between those who voluntary left and those who they released.

[Evil Vito]

Here’s another thought extra thought on this shitpile. The Jimmy Snuka Dark Side of the Ring just aired. Now WWE is in the news for something bad, but the nobody is talking about if Vince McMahon helped cover up a murder.

[RP]

I can think of 20, maybe 30 people to let go before Rusev.


Question.

Was Rusev not one of the top merch sellers a couple of years ago?

[Danny Electric]

I can think of 20, maybe 30 people to let go before Rusev.


Question.

Was Rusev not one of the top merch sellers a couple of years ago?

He was but I think he has wanted out for a while now.

[RP]

Here’s another thought extra thought on this shitpile. The Jimmy Snuka Dark Side of the Ring just aired. Now WWE is in the news for something bad, but the nobody is talking about if Vince McMahon helped cover up a murder.

Which is why Tamia will keep her job of eating half the catered food brought in every show.

[slik]

Rusev has been the #2 trend on Twitter in the U.S. for about 2 hours now

[RP]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Forever grateful to all my friends who are starting their new journeys today. It was an absolute honor to share the ring with you, and I can’t wait to see what you all dominate in next.</p>&mdash; Dean Muhtadi (@MojoRawleyWWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/MojoRawleyWWE/status/1250553055260676099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote>



:lol::rofl:

[slik]

Heath Slater will return to fulfill the 3MB prophecy in a year


https://i.imgur.com/c9XaCUR.jpg

[Emperor Smeat]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The stock is up, btw</p>&mdash; Voices of Wrestling (@voiceswrestling) <a href="https://twitter.com/voiceswrestling/status/1250505432310972417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Today's mass releases ended up being worth an extra 83 cents for WWE's stock based on current after-hours trading with an hour left to go.

[Evil Vito]

Capitalism! USA USA USA

[Evil Vito]

MJ Jenkins of NXT has been released

[Sepholio]

They could have just released Lesnar and it would have covered the costs of basically everyone else so far lol

[Triple A]

Seth Rollins on Instagram:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Goes on to say he doesn't understand the negativity directed towards WWE. He says it is difficult for them too and this isn't the time or the place to point fingers.<br><br>It's a day for empathy, compassion and understanding and we should support each other.</p>&mdash; Alex McCarthy (@AlexM_talkSPORT) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexM_talkSPORT/status/1250562059806400512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Droford]

Raw really got hammered

[Evil Vito]

Seth Rollins on Instagram:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Goes on to say he doesn't understand the negativity directed towards WWE. He says it is difficult for them too and this isn't the time or the place to point fingers.<br><br>It's a day for empathy, compassion and understanding and we should support each other.</p>&mdash; Alex McCarthy (@AlexM_talkSPORT) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexM_talkSPORT/status/1250562059806400512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He didn’t sell out, he bought in.

[Droford]

I’ve offered to sell that New York title to Zack Ryder for now, $40,000, since he bought a bunch of action figures for $40,000, ’cause he’s an idiot. Once this all gets settled, I guarantee you that the WWE will probably start doing massive layoffs. Because it’s going to be a lot of recoup time. And I will say, I bet you wish you had your 40 G’s back, and not in action figures there buddy. It’s nuts. And if you listen to his podcast, he finally revealed how much he paid for a Honky Tonk Man..I’m sorry, a Greg ‘the Hammer’ Valentine ‘Rhythm and Blues’ action figure, where he bid…how much did he say? $12,000 or $14,500. And he lost by $100. Supposedly, that’s the only one in the world, but, there’s three, and he has the second one.

[Emperor Smeat]

They could have just released Lesnar and it would have covered the costs of basically everyone else so far lol

Or just eat the cost for the time being considering the amount WWE is saving from these budget cuts is tiny compared to their massive cash reserve and the huge sum of money Vince earned for WWE liquidity during these times.

Just the liquidity money from Vince alone would have covered those saved costs for around 20 months.

[Lock Jaw]

MJ Jenkins of NXT has been released

I liked his video-game inspired music and tron, could have done without the dabbing

[ClockShot]

Checked this at work and this was just a few posts in on page 1. Now we're at 4.

God damn. Did Vince discover the landscaper shed at the Performance Center and take the Chainsaw for a spin?!

I think a few of the names on that list will land on their feet. Anderson & Gallows, EC3, Rowan, Mike & Maria Bennett, Rusev. If anything they're phones are ringing already from various promotions. They probably won't be working until the Rona lightens up a bit.

We've been saying for a while that the rosters were heavy. And we knew the day was coming cuts were going to be made. But, with all the crap happening in the world, the timing couldn't be any worse.

But, at the same time, if anybody at WWE who is miserable and wants a safe out, this is probably your best chance.

[Sepholio]

Or just eat the cost for the time being considering the amount WWE is saving from these budget cuts is tiny compared to their massive cash reserve and the huge sum of money Vince earned for WWE liquidity during these times.

Just the liquidity money from Vince alone would have covered those saved costs for around 20 months.

Oh I know. I'm just pointing out they could have done that. Lesnar is easily the most financially secure guy on the active roster, it wouldn't hurt him in the least to be sent packing and it would have let them keep all the others who aren't as fortunate as him employed.

[Blue Demon]

Of all the refs they could've released, they got rid of Chioda? Unless he volunteered to save somebody else.

[rez]

Seth Rollins on Instagram:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Goes on to say he doesn't understand the negativity directed towards WWE. He says it is difficult for them too and this isn't the time or the place to point fingers.<br><br>It's a day for empathy, compassion and understanding and we should support each other.</p>&mdash; Alex McCarthy (@AlexM_talkSPORT) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexM_talkSPORT/status/1250562059806400512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Fuck Seth

[Emperor Smeat]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Releases are still coming in apparently. So sad.</p>&mdash; Casey Michael (@ifyouseekcasey) <a href="https://twitter.com/ifyouseekcasey/status/1250569295077277697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Evil Vito]

Ace Steel, Serene Deeb, and Kendo Ka Shin released from their Performance Center coaching roles.

[Savio]

Apollo Crews Released.

[Sepholio]

Apollo needs to go to AEW ASAP. So many people he could have incredible matches with.

[Evil Vito]

Not seeing anything on Apollo being cut.

[Savio]

I saw it on twitter, prob #FakeNews

[Supreme Olajuwon]

So far the only ones I want to see in AEW are Rusev and maybe Drake because he’s so adorable. And I guess Chioda if he still wants to work.

Lot of fat trimming it looks like

[Emperor Smeat]

So far the only ones I want to see in AEW are Rusev and maybe Drake because he’s so adorable. And I guess Chioda if he still wants to work.

Lot of fat trimming it looks like

Purrazzo would be a huge gain for their women's division.

Maybe Rush as well to boost their mid-card considering how athletic he is in the ring and would fit great with their style of action. Only real downside is the negative baggage attached to him.

[Bad News Gertner]

They basically made up for their lack of spring cleaning over the past couple of years.

Just a bunch of guys clogging up the roster.

[Emperor Smeat]

WrestelVotes, who has been a pretty reliable source for wrestling news, is claiming the overall cuts are going to be in the hundreds range once everything settles.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">All I can say is wow at this point. The number of people, staff + talent, let go will be in the hundreds when it’s all set and done. Well into the hundreds. A dark day in WWE history.</p>&mdash; WrestleVotes (@WrestleVotes) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestleVotes/status/1250507915867414529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Evil Vito]

Said it earlier but I really wouldn't be shocked if NXT UK was just shut down completely. Just about everyone would be let go except for the handful that they offer a chance to move to the US - Tyler Bate, Toni Storm, etc. Probably WALTER too though he's repeatedly said he has no interest in moving to the US which is why he turned down WWE several times until NXT UK became a thing.

[xrodmuc316]

I'm thinking tomorrow will see more NXT cuts. Especially the ones that have been there forever, if not now then when.

Aliyah
Vanessa Borne
Tino Sabbatelli
Arturo Ruas
Cezar Bononi

4-5 years in developmental is enough

[Bad News Gertner]

They are probably paying those guys peanuts

[Mr. JL]

Pretty low of the WWE to release a mother on maternity leave, as well as her husband.

[Evil Vito]

My company did a round of layoffs last week and laid off one bigwig with the rest being people in lower level roles at a far lower salary level. It happens, unfortunately.

[Emperor Smeat]

Said it earlier but I really wouldn't be shocked if NXT UK was just shut down completely. Just about everyone would be let go except for the handful that they offer a chance to move to the US - Tyler Bate, Toni Storm, etc. Probably WALTER too though he's repeatedly said he has no interest in moving to the US which is why he turned down WWE several times until NXT UK became a thing.

If NXT UK shuts down, wouldn't be surprised if NXT Japan plans get axed as well.

NXT UK did a ton of damage to the view people had of Triple H being the future savoir of WWE and him not being just as destructive and petty towards the indies like Vince.

[slik]

Didn't NXT UK put a lot of British Indies outta business? I know for a while the UK was having an indy wrestling boom with sold out shows at venues all over the place for multiple companies.

[xrodmuc316]

So far the only ones I want to see in AEW are Rusev and maybe Drake because he’s so adorable. And I guess Chioda if he still wants to work.

Lot of fat trimming it looks like

Rusev for sure would be the priority signing for AEW.

I am still quite surprised Gallows and Anderson are gone. Seems odd that when AJ comes back on tv it will be like The OC never existed.

They would be a better tag team get for AEW than the Revival I think. They might decide to go back to Japan though.

Depending on how AEW wants to play it, I could see them bringing in Rowan with the Dark Order to build on the obvious connection.

EC3 gotta be heading back to Impact. Likely Eric Young as well. I also think Drake would be more likely to end up back in Impact as well.

I think there are also clear WWE guys that will likely get resigned down the road like Zack Ryder and Heath Slater. I'd probably throw Hawkins in there as well. Sarah Logan also considering her Viking Husband is still employed.

The Colons already basically worked full time in Puerto Rico, so that's where they are heading.

Wildcard in it all would be Lio Rush, he is so good he could probably pick his spot.

Mike and Maria could go AEW/Impact/ROH. Same with Deonna Purrazzo Not really sure on them.

[Volare]

Ryder's Twitter Handle...

Matt Cardona
@ZackRyder

new?

[Evil Vito]

Didn't NXT UK put a lot of British Indies outta business? I know for a while the UK was having an indy wrestling boom with sold out shows at venues all over the place for multiple companies.

Not necessarily put companies out of business, but coming to agreements with a lot of the companies and pretty much fucking them over by pulling talent off of the shows they were booked for constantly.

[Evil Vito]

Ryder's Twitter Handle...

Matt Cardona
@ZackRyder

new?

Matt Cardona is his real name. He and Hawkins (!Brian Myers) have used their real names on social media for a while due to their action figure podcast and YouTube show.

[Emperor Smeat]

Didn't NXT UK put a lot of British Indies outta business? I know for a while the UK was having an indy wrestling boom with sold out shows at venues all over the place for multiple companies.

No but they played a major role in the wrestling renaissance there being quickly extinguished. Combo of WWE desperately wanting to get their grubby hands all over it and UK companies being too naive on Triple H's motives for the region and NXT UK.

ITV also helped damage it but to a much lesser degree than WWE with how badly they botched World of Sport's revival.

A few UK companies were on shaky legs even during the wrestling renaissance so they likely weren't going to last anyways. The whole scene suffering almost all at once can be directly traced back to WWE trying to hog as much of the pie as possible even if it meant screwing over their affiliates.

[Damian Rey 2.0]

Rusev and The Revival seem like the priority signings.

Anderson and Gallows were pretty dull to me. I can see them heading back to Japan.

EC3 could go to Impact or AEW.

Feel terrible for a lot of those guys. The worst fucking time to get dumped.

[xrodmuc316]

Rusev and The Revival seem like the priority signings.

Anderson and Gallows were pretty dull to me. I can see them heading back to Japan.

EC3 could go to Impact or AEW.

Feel terrible for a lot of those guys. The worst fucking time to get dumped.

The Revival should have signed those $750k contracts then got the buyout lol.

I wasn't counting Revival in this though because they got out beforehand.

[Damian Rey 2.0]

I doubt they get released if they had resigned

[Vastardikai]

I can actually see Bennett, EC3, and maybe Ryder going to NWA.

EC3 and Bennett would certainly be National Champion material right out the gate with Carter being built up more easily to Sweet Charlotte.

[Maluco]

Ryder will go to AEW, no question. He is popular with the boys, has proven he can get over and is still really young for a wrestler. He has an online presence too. He will be in AEW as fast as the current situation allows him.

[Outsider]

Apparently Kassius Ohno’s profile has been moved to the ‘alumni’ section on the WWE website.

[XL]

I liked his video-game inspired music and tron, could have done without the dabbing

Not sure if you’re joking with this :lol:

[Droford]

Apparently Kassius Ohno’s profile has been moved to the ‘alumni’ section on the WWE website.

Oh...no

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

Many of these people shouldn't have been hired or kept on board in the first place. And much like WWE would, they've let them go at the worst possible time.

[Evil Vito]

Apparently they're done with main roster cuts. Lio Rush, Mike Kanellis, Drake Maverick were in the first wave because anyone in 205 Live is deemed main roster and that's why they were announced.

But more NXT cuts and cuts to other onscreen talent have happened, but they're not going public with it and it's up to the talents to break the news themselves if they wanted to.

Also means that even though NXT keeps getting spun as being "main roster" since they're on TV, they're not.

[Droford]

Drake was in the nxt cruiserweight interim championship group thing too lol

Wonder who replaces him

[GD]

Drake was in the nxt cruiserweight interim championship group thing too lol

Wonder who replaces him

He's going to compete in the tournament. If only you'd watched his video.

[XL]

I thought to myself “the crowd are gonna be so behind him in these matches” and then realised. Still, a strange situation to have him still do the matches; although I guess it’s at his request. Finally got to go in the ring and show what he can do, and released before he got the chance. :(

[Jordan]

Why would you hire EC3 when you have MJF?

EC3 should return to Impact or he could take MJF's spot on the Dynasty stable.

I'd like to see Heath Slater get a rejuvenating ROH contract before he returns to WWE and becomes world's champion as the 3MB Monkeys Paw theory dictates.

I hope The Good Brothers return to NJPW. They could rejuvenate The Bullet Club in a big way. Big Battle.

I feel like AEW has got to sign Rusev, Miro. Could be a big star if they bring him in with a great story. I also think they should hire Rowan to work with or against Brodie Lee. Rowan is a giant and he had been improving a lot recently. I would give him a contract.

I don't care for Ryder much anymore however he was awesome in the past and Cody did tribute him on IG. I could see him going there.

Drake Maverick is so good I'm sure it won't be long before he gets work with Impact again or possibly AEW, ROH or MLW.

Chris Hero likely to do whatever the fuck he wants now.

[erickman]

yeah ec3 and mjf might be to much who would be the better cocky heel? slater has 2 former tag partners that he had belts with ryno and his 1st nxt partner in roh.

[Evil Vito]

Lance Storm had one of the most acclaimed wrestling schools in the world and he closed it up and sold most of its assets to take his producer job that lasted 4 months.

[Droford]

He's going to compete in the tournament. If only you'd watched his video.

It's not like hes going to win then

Not that he had any chance prior, but still

[Emperor Smeat]

Apparently they're done with main roster cuts. Lio Rush, Mike Kanellis, Drake Maverick were in the first wave because anyone in 205 Live is deemed main roster and that's why they were announced.

But more NXT cuts and cuts to other onscreen talent have happened, but they're not going public with it and it's up to the talents to break the news themselves if they wanted to.

Also means that even though NXT keeps getting spun as being "main roster" since they're on TV, they're not.

Seems the bulk of the unannounced cuts were not releases and instead just talent furloughed for the time being. Knowing WWE, those contracts likely got froze so any time missed is just getting added back at the end like with injury time.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">There have been a lot more on camera talent furloughed that will come out if they so choose</p>&mdash; Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1250630851869716480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Money-wise, the amount being saved monthly from these talent cuts is tiny compared to other expenses they had going on.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The talent cuts will save them about $703,000 per month, $4 million includes all expenses cut including expenses of moving into a new office. <a href="https://t.co/5AD9Eie1mc">https://t.co/5AD9Eie1mc</a></p>&mdash; Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) <a href="https://twitter.com/davemeltzerWON/status/1250660077704368128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


Also both the Wrestling Observer and Post Wrestling speculating something really did go down recently with FOX and USA regarding WWE's tv deals that sent Vince into this panic mode. Meltzer mentioned on Twitter that its been something gaining traction from sources close to the situation.

[Bad News Gertner]

I remember thinking Dan Matha was going to be a sure fire Vince guy and that he'd be a heavily pushed Main roster guy

[GD]

It's not like hes going to win then

Not that he had any chance prior, but still

What’s your point, Droford?

[Lock Jaw]

Done with main roster cuts? Pfffft what fun is that?

[xrodmuc316]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The talent cuts will save them about $703,000 per month, $4 million includes all expenses cut including expenses of moving into a new office. <a href="https://t.co/5AD9Eie1mc">https://t.co/5AD9Eie1mc</a></p>&mdash; Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) <a href="https://twitter.com/davemeltzerWON/status/1250660077704368128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


Also both the Wrestling Observer and Post Wrestling speculating something really did go down recently with FOX and USA regarding WWE's tv deals that sent Vince into this panic mode. Meltzer mentioned on Twitter that its been something gaining traction from sources close to the situation.

How could Dave Meltzer POSSIBLY know the exact dollar amount that will be saved with the releases??? He is such trash.

[Vastardikai]

It's kind of weird that Mike Rotunda was released Yesterday, after all, he WAS IRS.

[Sepholio]

lol I see what you did there

[Emperor Smeat]

I remember thinking Dan Matha was going to be a sure fire Vince guy and that he'd be a heavily pushed Main roster guy

He ended up being in the same boat as Lars Sullivan in regards to whatever big plans they had for him got derailed due to an injury and being involved in an incident or two that didn't do him any favors.


How could Dave Meltzer POSSIBLY know the exact dollar amount that will be saved with the releases??? He is such trash.
From WWE's recent financial reports and him not being the only one who has been coming up with those numbers.

[xrodmuc316]

It's kind of weird that Mike Rotunda was released Yesterday, after all, he WAS IRS.

I'm sure he will get a good write off though :rofl:

[Lock Jaw]

Just saw that Cody posted a lengthy thing on Instagram praising Zack Ryder.....

Wonder where he is going to end up... :?:

[Sepholio]

Ryder is a good pick up for any company. Dude looks great, solid performer and a prolific work horse. Plus he still has his cult following online. Everyone should be going after him.

He's gonna go to AEW though.

[xrodmuc316]

From WWE's recent financial reports and him not being the only one who has been coming up with those numbers.

I've never read a single WWE financial report that lists the wrestlers salary/contract, other then the executives like HHH who have their talent earnings mentioned in their total compensation.

If it's out there what was Ryder's or Rowan's salary? Meltzer either has copies of every WWE wrestlers contracts and added the amounts up for the ones let go, or he is utterly full of shit.

[Emperor Smeat]

Ryder is a good pick up for any company. Dude looks great, solid performer and a prolific work horse. Plus he still has his cult following online. Everyone should be going after him.

He's gonna go to AEW though.

Outside of Rusev, his release is the one that stings the most for me out of everyone announced.

Did a lot to help WWE in terms of them becoming a lot more social media active and changing the negative perception they had of the internet. WWE's reward to him was to basically treat him like shit afterwards because he got over organically with fans and didn't need WWE's help to make it happen. His road to the US title and title victory over Ziggy in 2011 is still one of my favorite moments from WWE in the 2010s.

Even once managed to have a crowd hijack a Rock promo because they wanted him to show up instead.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The fans chanting “We Want Ryder” as The Rock tries to cut a promo in Madison Square Garden after the 2011 Survivor Series. <a href="https://t.co/sf3jtH109E">pic.twitter.com/sf3jtH109E</a></p>&mdash; Ryan Satin (@ryansatin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryansatin/status/1250558925386051584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[xrodmuc316]

Outside of Rusev, his release is the one that stings the most for me out of everyone announced.

Did a lot to help WWE in terms of them becoming a lot more social media active and changing the negative perception they had of the internet. WWE's reward to him was to basically treat him like shit afterwards because he got over organically with fans and didn't need WWE's help to make it happen. His road to the US title and title victory over Ziggy in 2011 is still one of my favorite moments from WWE in the 2010s.

Even once managed to have a crowd hijack a Rock promo because they wanted him to show up instead.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The fans chanting “We Want Ryder” as The Rock tries to cut a promo in Madison Square Garden after the 2011 Survivor Series. <a href="https://t.co/sf3jtH109E">pic.twitter.com/sf3jtH109E</a></p>&mdash; Ryan Satin (@ryansatin) <a href="https://twitter.com/ryansatin/status/1250558925386051584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

100% right. As much as he made WWE finally embrace the importance of social media, Ryder never got enough credit from WWE for it.

[Evil Vito]

Z True Long Island Story was a fun watch every week.

Then WWE made him start doing it for their YouTube channel and Ryder said that completely sucked the fun out of it for him.

[Emperor Smeat]

I've never read a single WWE financial report that lists the wrestlers salary/contract, other then the executives like HHH who have their talent earnings mentioned in their total compensation.

If it's out there what was Ryder's or Rowan's salary? Meltzer either has copies of every WWE wrestlers contracts and added the amounts up for the ones let go, or he is utterly full of shit.

That number doesn't come from him knowing what all the actual contract amounts are and instead is mostly from deducting the other expensive that were part of the cuts. Even WWE stated the bulk of that $4 million monthly savings was due to them halting construction of their new HQ.

He's not even the first to float around a low talent cost number since others were doing it earlier as part of them defending WWE online over the timing of these cuts.

[xrodmuc316]

That number doesn't come from him knowing what all the actual contract amounts are and instead is mostly from deducting the other expensive that were part of the cuts. Even WWE stated the bulk of that $4 million monthly savings was due to them halting construction of their new HQ.

He's not even the first to float around a low talent cost number since others were doing it earlier as part of them defending WWE online over the timing of these cuts.

Right, but he purports it as him having sources and "knowing". The fact that it's such a specific and random number is to further allude to that. If it was just an estimate, he would just say $700,000. $703,000 is just him slanting the narrative in a way to make it seem that he isn't full of shit.

[Emperor Smeat]

This week's Wrestling Observer Newsletter probably will have more details on that talent cost number but its also entirely possible that was something mentioned by his sources and he confirmed it afterwards.

He's been doing other number crunching to figure out how much of an impact the coronavirus really will have on the company this year and came to the conclusion WWE still likely are going to rake in around $1 billion just from their global tv deals. Other major areas like house show and merch/licensing revenues dropping to zero for the rest of the year wouldn't impact that number nor needing the Saudis to bail them out with another Saudi show.

Meanwhile every other notable wrestling company probably going to need a miracle to make any profit this year and none have resorted to doing cuts to save money. Not even Impact and they've been on shaky financial grounds for years. Even Sinclair and their current money issues hasn't been a problem for ROH since they have been paying talent for cancelled shows.

[erickman]

yeah roh and aew will have to be write offs for the sinclare and tony. impact tapes shows anyway so no real loss. new japan may get gov help in japan they hope. don't know about mlw and nwa.

[xrodmuc316]

This week's Wrestling Observer Newsletter probably will have more details on that talent cost number but its also entirely possible that was something mentioned by his sources and he confirmed it afterwards.

He's been doing other number crunching to figure out how much of an impact the coronavirus really will have on the company this year and came to the conclusion WWE still likely are going to rake in around $1 billion just from their global tv deals. Other major areas like house show and merch/licensing revenues dropping to zero for the rest of the year wouldn't impact that number nor needing the Saudis to bail them out with another Saudi show.

Meanwhile every other notable wrestling company probably going to need a miracle to make any profit this year and none have resorted to doing cuts to save money. Not even Impact and they've been on shaky financial grounds for years. Even Sinclair and their current money issues hasn't been a problem for ROH since they have been paying talent for cancelled shows.

Oh I'm no way arguing that Vince isn't a complete asshole for firing anybody with the amount of money they are still bringing in. Just specifically that I think Meltzer is a joke of a reporter, and that he is full of shit most of the time.

Quoting $703,000 exactly, that's his typical bullshit style. He is either guessing or taking other general estimates and picking a specific number to portray that he has the scoop.

[Bad News Gertner]

Meltzer is not full of shit most of the time. Stop.

[Ol Dirty Dastard]

Xrod, stop listening to bruce Prichard, you fucking hack.

[Bad News Gertner]

I hate reddit.

[Emperor Smeat]

yeah roh and aew will have to be write offs for the sinclare and tony. impact tapes shows anyway so no real loss. new japan may get gov help in japan they hope. don't know about mlw and nwa.

MLW is likely in the same boat as Impact and ROH where this year is a loss for them but are getting some financial help from their tv deals during these times.

No clue on NWA although Corgan mentioned a while ago of them desperately needing a real tv contract if they wanted to survive for the long term.

[Emperor Smeat]

4 more names from NXT were revealed to have been released.

Taynara Conti – She reportedly left NXT after a “disagreement” in February, but eventually returned. She is now released.

Cezar Bononi – Signed in October 2015.

Nick Ogarelli – He has not appeared on NXT TV, but has wrestled at live events. He was signed in February 2019.

Mars Wang – A recruit from China who signed in March 2018.

Out of those 4, Conti is the most notable one considering she was the first person in NXT to have a match or segment beat out AEW in viewership. WWE rewarded that achievement by basically not having her appear on NXT shows for some time afterwards.


Edit: Add Tino Sabbatelli to the list as well since Fightful reported he got released.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">As reported on Fightful Select, Tino Sabbatelli was among the releases</p>&mdash; Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1251279717644275712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Lock Jaw]

Aliyah lives to fight another day....

[Triple A]

Meltzer says that main roster released wrestlers have a 90 day non-compete clause, so can't sign anywhere until July 15.

NXT wrestlers have 30 day non-competes.

[Anybody Thrilla]

Conti is hot. That's what I am choosing to add to this at the moment.

[Emperor Smeat]

Seems plans for NXT Japan are dead for now since WWE's cuts are also expected to start impacting those who have signed on with the project over there.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tokyo Sports about NXT Japan: &quot;The aftermath of the mass layoffs by WWE is likely to extend to Japan.&quot; The article quotes not further specified &quot;people invovled&quot;: &quot;It is likely that this will make it difficult for the company to expand to Japan.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/IWQOW5tkqi">https://t.co/IWQOW5tkqi</a></p>&mdash; Eastern Lariat (@EasternLariat) <a href="https://twitter.com/EasternLariat/status/1251067499573108736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Evil Vito]

Tino Sabbatelli’s another one where you know he’s the drizzling shits if Vince has no use for him.

[Anybody Thrilla]

I thought his team with Moss had potential, really.

[Emperor Smeat]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If this ain’t one of the best t-shirts you have seen in your life, somethins wrong with ya. <a href="https://twitter.com/PWTees?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PWTees</a> <a href="https://t.co/JWJnnYjIUN">https://t.co/JWJnnYjIUN</a> <a href="https://t.co/8kcTPBbPQ7">pic.twitter.com/8kcTPBbPQ7</a></p>&mdash; Heath Slater (@HeathSlaterOMRB) <a href="https://twitter.com/HeathSlaterOMRB/status/1251267489922715650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Anybody Thrilla]

Hell yeah

[erickman]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If this ain’t one of the best t-shirts you have seen in your life, somethins wrong with ya. <a href="https://twitter.com/PWTees?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PWTees</a> <a href="https://t.co/JWJnnYjIUN">https://t.co/JWJnnYjIUN</a> <a href="https://t.co/8kcTPBbPQ7">pic.twitter.com/8kcTPBbPQ7</a></p>&mdash; Heath Slater (@HeathSlaterOMRB) <a href="https://twitter.com/HeathSlaterOMRB/status/1251267489922715650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

eric young needs to get out his old don't fire eric shirt

[Bad News Gertner]

Love Heath so much.

[Ultra Mantis]

NXT had a guy called Mars Wang and they didnt immediately put the belt on him? Sheer incompetence.

[Emperor Smeat]

Being rumored that Killian Dain was released as well for NXT cuts.

[xrodmuc316]

Being rumored that Killian Dain was released as well for NXT cuts.

That would be REAL shitty by them. Yes they fired Sarah Logan while Erik still has his job, but she is American at least.

Killian Dain would lose his visa even though his wife is still working in the States.

[xrodmuc316]

Xrod, stop listening to bruce Prichard, you fucking hack.

Lol, it is not a one or the other kind of thing, not much of a fan of either truthfully.

[xrodmuc316]

4 more names from NXT were revealed to have been released.



Out of those 4, Conti is the most notable one considering she was the first person in NXT to have a match or segment beat out AEW in viewership. WWE rewarded that achievement by basically not having her appear on NXT shows for some time afterwards.


Edit: Add Tino Sabbatelli to the list as well since Fightful reported he got released.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">As reported on Fightful Select, Tino Sabbatelli was among the releases</p>&mdash; Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful.com (@SeanRossSapp) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanRossSapp/status/1251279717644275712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

I thought Conti quit a few months ago?

Looks like I picked a few of these before they happened. That will be $11.99 per month...

I'm thinking tomorrow will see more NXT cuts. Especially the ones that have been there forever, if not now then when.

Aliyah
Vanessa Borne
Tino Sabbatelli
Arturo Ruas
Cezar Bononi

4-5 years in developmental is enough

*FYI, PLANS CHANGE, AGAIN $11.99 PLEASE :rofl:

[XL]

Never got into Tanynara Conti. I liked Tino as a tag guy or as someone’s heater (a more competent Alex Riley maybe).

[Rammsteinmad]

Really hope Zack Ryder ends up in AEW and really has a good run with the company behind him. The fact he got as over as he did all by himself back in 2011 is amazing. Also amazing is how badly WWE didn't capitilize on it. They could have made a lot of money with Ryder if they'd even gotten just a fraction behind him.

Guy with that much passion and ingenuity is the kinda guy I'd wanna employ.

[Volare]

Rusev and Ryder are the 2 hot tickets for sure. Slater will have a following as well.

[Emperor Smeat]

PWI reporting that Kassius Ohno got released along with a bunch others from WWE's PC.

The following talents appear to have been released from their WWE NXT deals as they have been removed from the WWE Performance Center website:

*Mohamed Abdelfattah aka Mohamed Fahim, an Egyptian-born talent who was signed in Jauary 2018.

*Marcos Gomes, a Brazilian talent signed in May 2019 with a background in Muay Thai and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

*Faisal Kurdi was signed in June 2019 after a tryout in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He had a background in Muay Thai and MMA.

*Edgar Lopez, a Mexican talent, was signed in September 2019 after a WWE tryout in Chile. He came from a football background.

*Bodybuilder Hussain Aldagal, also from Saudi Arabia, was signed following a tryout in June 2019.

*Yifeng, known as Rocky in NXT rings, was a signee from China with an acting background who had signed in September 2016. He had been competing on NXT live events as recently as this past February.

It should also be noted that Kassius Ohno (aka Chris Hero) has been moved to the Alumni section of the WWE website as of Friday and has also been released.

[Damian Rey 2.0]

AEW signing Ryder to be a Shawn Spears type but on the babyface side is fine. But let's be honest, likeable as he may be, he's been booked like a fucking loser his entire run minus a few blips on the radar. They can't push him seriously without looking bush league about it.

Rusev on the other hand should be a priority. A grossly misused talent who's at last had relative recent success. He and Hager also have some history they can play off of.

[Emperor Smeat]

Considering they haven't really pulled a TNA with any of their recent signings from WWE, doubt that is going to be an issue if they signed Ryder or anyone else from these cuts.

TNA's problem never was them signing a bunch of "WWE Rejects" but them cutting the legs off of pushes and momentum from their own homegrown stars in favor of whoever new they signed from WWE.

Had WWE treated him better, Ryder could have ended up like The Miz in terms of being a very reliable hand and popular midcard star to lean on whenever needed. 2011 Ryder was pretty raw in terms of star talent and power but also showed a lot of potential of becoming an even bigger star had WWE just stayed on course with his star development.

[slik]

TNA also had like every person they signed cut a promo immediately about how the place they were before sucked and how they joined TNA because it was the real big promotion

[Damian Rey 2.0]

How Colt Cabana is being used is how they should use Ryder should they sign him.

[Jordan]

In regard to where some of the guys end up...

It's looking like The Good Brothers are likely to go back to work for NJPW, perhaps they will also sign deals with ROH as well, let's not forget that relationship (ROH/NJPW) is still active.

Ryder seems like a lock to sign with AEW as Cody's love seems to always equal opportunity and I can see Tony being a mark for Ryder.

Miro (Rusev) is the most interesting. Does AEW need another big WWE star? If they do he would be a great choice. I can't see him working long term anywhere else unless he decides to work NWA and all the Indies instead of sign a major deal. I remember at times NJPW fans saying they'd like to see him there. I would too but also wherever he goes he's got to bring out a new character. Probably the most interesting release to watch on the list.

Lio Rush ... I'm not sure he will continue wrestling but people seem to think he will work NJPW, forgetting that he has a lot of heat in ROH and they will likely prevent that contact from happening.

Chris Hero ... If he doesn't sign with AEW I'd say he is fine working for Gabe and Evolve and all of the Euro and US Indy bookings. Though he should probably be a priority for AEW.

Drake Maverick, if he is really released I can see him anywhere. Likely Impact and AAA but possibly NWA. He would be a great manager there.

EC3 likely would be best in Impact. Why would AEW want him when they have MJF? It would be cool to see him takeover the Dynasty stable in MLW if that was where he wound up.

Rowan should get signed to a contract. He's not much of an ROH type but he'd be a giant there. He could also be really effective in NWA. However with his close friendship to Brodie Lee I wouldn't be surprised or mind to see him in AEW. He was improving a lot this past year.

Heath Slater... Really one of the all around best. Never really been highlighted as a great wrestler but he has it in him. I'd really like to see him be reinvented in ROH and have a big main event run there before returning to WWE within 2 years jacked as fuck to take the WWE Championship thus fulfilling the 3MB Monkeys Paw theory.

[Ultra Mantis]

Rusev would actually work great in the NEVER division as Suzuki-gun's new bruiser.

[Emperor Smeat]

Somehow NXT UK managed to be the only brand not affected by WWE's roster cuts.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just spoke to a source who has confirmed that WWE NXT UK will be making no cuts to its roster at this time. Also the roster are getting paid in full and will not be furloughed as they are all self employed!</p>&mdash; Tony Quant (@TopRopeTony) <a href="https://twitter.com/TopRopeTony/status/1251807188689043456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


Also turns out whatever fear Vince had regarding WWE's tv deals ended up being unfounded since FOX and USA Network reportedly told WWE they don't need to run live shows for contractual reasons during the coronavirus. Makes these cuts look even worse if they had any relation to Vince's tv paranoia.

[XL]

Think the NXT UK guys earn peanuts in comparison to the main rosters.

[Evil Vito]

They also work in a country with stricter labor standards and that "independent contractor" shit might not actually fly.

[Emperor Smeat]

Seems WWE is considering rehiring Sarah Logan due to a lot of people within the company have been fighting to get her job back.

Speculation among the locker room is that Sarah Logan is expected to be back with the company in some capacity in the near future, if she isn't already. As with the case with anyone getting fired, there will be plenty of unhappy people, but we've heard numerous people loudly went to bat for her. She's married to Erik of the Viking Raiders, who is on WWE's Raw brand.

[Droford]

She's probably the one being mentioned as someone who was fired showing up on raw tonight

[RP]

Sarah Logan fucking sucks.

[xrodmuc316]

I know some of those releases asked for it, but WWE really should rehire a few of the cuts.

Maverick
Slater
Gallows and Anderson
Ryder and Hawkins
And I'm cool with Sarah Logan being rehired too because they don't have that deep of a woman's division.

That said, if any of them have a better opportunity like Ryder to AEW, then they should tell Vince to go to hell.